Once upon a time … Right and if they haven’t been destroyed, they’re still standing today. I think there’s no one not being interested in castles. Girls/women still dream of being a princess while guys often still act as if they’re kings.
It doesn’t matter which kind of trip you plan. Just make sure to inform yourselves before you head to a certain destination. Especially in Europe, you will find a lot of magnificent palaces from a long time ago.
What’s really impressive is that they’re all unique in their way and they tell a lot about the people who built it.
We’re planning to see a lot more castles in the future. For now, we count twelve. We hope, you’ll find inspiration for your next journey.
1. Palácio Nacional da Pena, Sintra, Portugal
This is one of the craziest palaces we’ve seen so far. The architects of this palace combined different styles and the result is unique in the world. Pena Castle was built in the 19th century. Because of its eccentric style it’s said to be Portugal’s Neuschwanstein. From Lisbon, you can make an unforgettable day trip to this magical castle!
2. Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria, Germany
Bavaria’s pride and everyone’s dream. No, this castle isn’t overrated, dear enviers. Ludwig II commissioned to built it in 1869. Unfortunately, he couldn’t live but a few months in it before he died.
Around 1.3 million visitors a year come to Neuschwanstein. The view from the Marien Bridge is very popular.
3. Reichsburg Cochem, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
In our opinion, Cochem is one of the most beautiful places in Germany. Surrounded by vine yards the Reichsburg soars above the Old Town! Unfortunately, it’s not a very cheap place to stay. Nevertheless you should put this place on your list!
4. Eltz Castle, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany
This castle is so trendy right now. Especially on Instagram it feels kind of bothering seeing it so frequently. But you can’t blame the people. It’s quite a busy place. If you make your way here, try to see it in the morning to avoid the crowds.
5. Sanssoucis Castle, Brandenburg, Germany
Internationally, this castle hasn’t made it too far yet. Probably because it’s located in Brandenburg and it’s really really far away from Berlin. Though it’s one of the most famous castles of the Hohenzollern.
It was built from the 18th to the 19th century. Since 1990 it’s part of the UNESCO World Heritage. By the way: Neuschwanstein Castle still fights for the title.
We loved seeing it in winter. Someday, we’ll come back and see it in summer!
6. Kungliga slotted, Stockholm, Sweden
Is there anything Swedes can’t do? Worldwide they’re known for having great style.
The castle in Stockholm is located in the centre of the city and one of the main attractions. It was built in the beginning of the 18th century. Every day at the same time you can see the changing of the guard. They just look so cute in their uniforms.
7. Topkapı Sarayı, Istanbul, Turkey
This palace looks back on a legendary history. Over several centuries, sultans of the Ottoman Empire lived and reigned here. The inner court is beautiful while it’s looking pompous and mighty from the outside. It was built in the 15th century after conquering Constantinople. It became famous after the movie ‘Topkapı‘ aired, starring Peter Ustinov, Melina Mercouri and Maximilian Schell.
8. Palais Royal, Brussels, Belgium
Compared to the Grand Place this palace is often overlooked. It’s located in the centre of the city and was built in the beginning of the 19th century.
9. Schönbrunn Castle, Vienna, Austria
Thanks to Sissi and Franz, this castle attracts millions of visitors from all over the world. It’s one of the most famous and popular sites in Austria. Vienna itself is a really beautiful city and the castle is the cherry on the top.
10. Prague Castle, Prague, Czech Republic
Prague castles lies on the Hradschin Hill and was built in the 9th century. It changed over the centuries and attracts over one million visitors each year. It’s said to be the world’s largest castle complex!
11. The Grand Palace, Bangkok, Thailand
What do you expect from Thailand? Gold, swank, pomp – while building the King’s Palace, people weren’t very modest and today we say thank you to them. The castle was built in the 18th century. The detailed facade gives you a hint on how much effort was put in building this castle. In 1946, King Bhumipol decided to change its domicile. Today, it’s opened to visitors and they come from everywhere in the world.
12. Château de Versailles, Versailles, Frankreich
This is the castle of the castles. The embodiment of decadence. Not far from Paris, you’ll find one of the largest castle complexes of the world.
Until the French Revolution it was the domicile of the French Kings. Louis XIII built the castle in the 17th century. Louis XIV rebuilt it and showed his total madness. The breathtaking garden complex and the swanky interior are totally worth the visit. Since 1979, Versailles Castle is on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
What castles can you recommend to see? Write down in the comments below, we’d love to know!
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